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Simeon Stilthda, a prolific carver, made this fine portrait mask. It portrays a surprised-looking or singing Native man with a neatly combed Victorian-inspired haircut. The red paint over his eyes and forehead depicts traditional Haida face painting designs. Such designs were used in ceremonies to identify secret society membership or clan and family affiliations. To further animate the masterfully alert expression, the eyes were made to pivot from side to side as if the man were surveying the cause of his surprise.